Carrier Relations Specialist

At CJ Schwan’s, we don’t just make food — we help create moments that matter. From kids devouring pizza after soccer practice, to students laughing over dumplings in a cafeteria, to families enjoying pie during the holidays, our team members play an important role in bringing those everyday moments to life. Our portfolio includes iconic pizzas, global flavors and timeless desserts from brands like Red Baron®, bibigo®, Tony’s®, Big Daddy’s®, Freschetta®, Pagoda®, Edwards® and Mrs.

Smith’s®. Enjoyed in homes, schools, restaurants and just about everywhere people shop and eat, our products reflect a commitment to quality, innovation and the power of food to bring people together.

As a Carrier Relations Specialist based at our corporate headquarters in Hopkins, MN or Marshall, MN
, you will support Distribution Services and Logistics by analyzing transportation data, supporting carrier negotiations, and ensuring competitively priced, reliable transportation for outbound and inbound freight.

• Support carrier rate and cost negotiations by preparing metrics and analyses that ensure capacity, service alignment, and cost effectiveness.
• Maintain accurate carrier contracts, fuel surcharges, and lane rate data within the Transportation Management System (TMS).
• Identify and implement transportation cost‑saving initiatives across multiple modes, including OTR, rail, LTL, intermodal, parcel, ocean, brokerage, and private fleet.
• Support freight integration and process development related to acquisitions.
• Monitor and improve carrier performance using scorecards, performance technology, and regular carrier reviews.
• Lead and manage the carrier business review cycle.

• High School Diploma or equivalent required;
  Bachelor’s degree preferred.
• 3+ years of experience in transportation, procurement, or supply chain.
• Working knowledge of Transportation Management Systems and transportation visibility tools.
• Strong analytical, communication, and influencing skills with the ability to translate insights into action.
• Detail‑oriented, highly accurate, and comfortable working independently or collaboratively.
• Proficient in Microsoft Office Suite.

The base salary range for this position is $54,000 to $89,000 annually, with eligibility for a 5% annual incentive bonus based on organizational performance. The range reflects factors such as experience, skills, education, certifications, and location, and starting salary may fall anywhere within the stated range.

Beyond base salary, we offer a competitive Total Rewards package designed to support your overall well-being, including comprehensive health benefits, time off programs, and retirement and financial offerings.

• Education:
  
  High School Diploma or equivalent. BA/BS preferred but not required.
• Familiar with transportation visibility software. Familiar with Transportation Management systems.
• Years of Related
  
  Experience:
  
  3+ years of related experience.
• Knowledge/Skills/Abilities:
  Proficient knowledge in one or more of the following areas;
  Transportation, Procurement, or Supply Chain. Demonstrates developing business maturity, business acumen, communication, influencing skills, and ability to develop and deliver recommendations. Ability to provide meaningful insights and solutions to action. Intermediate analytical skills. Ability to work independently and/or in group settings. Strong attention to detail and a high need for accuracy. Proficient in Microsoft Office Suite.

This job description is not intended to be an exhaustive list of all duties, responsibilities, and qualifications associated with the job. An individual must be able to perform all of the duties and responsibilities listed in a fully competent manner to be considered successful in the job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform essential duties and responsibilities.

​CJ Schwan’s and its subsidiaries are Equal Opportunity Employers. All qualified applicants will be considered without regard to race, color, religion, gender, age, disability, veteran status, national origin, or any other protected characteristic. We provide reasonable accommodations for individuals with disabilities or sincerely held religious beliefs. For accommodation requests or assistance with the application, please email